2025 INFOMAR MSc. Module in Collaboration with Maynooth University and SMART Sea School
This year marks the sixth delivery of the ‘Marine Remote Sensing – INFOMAR’ Level 9 postgraduate module, run in collaboration with the Department of Geography at Maynooth University. As part of the MSc in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing, the module focuses on developing competencies in seafloor mapping and the management of ocean data through a combination of in-depth lectures, tutorials, and hands-on training aboard a modern research vessel. The course is accredited by both the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), paving the way for graduates pursuing careers as Chartered Geomatics Surveyors.
Exploring the Foundations of Seafloor Mapping and Ocean Science
The classroom component covered a wide array of marine remote sensing topics, including Seafloor Mapping, Ocean Geography and Evolution, Marine Data Science & Product Development, Fundamentals of Oceanography, Seafloor Imaging, Coastal Change, Seafloor Sediments & Processes, Multibeam Technology Focus, Earth Observation, Marine Geophysics, Survey Planning, Geodesy, Marine Habitat Mapping, Seabed Mapping Impacts & the Future of Ocean Science, and Careers and the Ocean Economy. With participants from a broad range of geographic and cultural backgrounds, the module fosters a diverse and globally connected learning environment.
Figure 1: Senior Geologist Eoin Mac Craith lecturing on Survey Planning at Maynooth University
The tutorial sessions introduced students to real-world workflows for multibeam echosounder (MBES) calibration and data processing. The students undertook shipwreck reporting and created 3D seabed visualisations using professional-grade software tools provided by QPS under an academic license. Cloud-based Satellite Derived Bathymetry (SDB) analysis, leveraging Sentinel-2 data, enabled students to assess coastal seabed morphology using remote sensing.
Offshore Training
At the heart of the module lies a practical, offshore training experience delivered by The Strategic Marine Alliance for Research & Training (SMART) and INFOMAR staff aboard Ireland’s cutting-edge research vessel, the R.V. Tom Crean. At 52.8 meters in length and equipped to support a diverse range of scientific disciplines, the vessel serves as a unique classroom for immersive learning. Students participated in a two-night offshore expedition, gaining hands-on experience with the operational realities of life and work at sea. From biological sampling of benthic fauna to remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives, the experience provided a tangible insight into marine science fieldwork.
Figure 2: MU MSc. Students offshore training on R.V. Tom Crean with SMART and INFOMAR staff
A key component of the ship-based training involved students designing and executing hydrographic surveys using MBES technology. As part of their training, the students monitored live acoustic data acquisition in the dry lab and visualised the seafloor topography in real-time. The team also acquired sub-bottom profiler data to interpret underlying sediment layers. Post-survey, students used Qinsy, Qimera, and Fledermaus software—generously provided by QPS—for quality control, error correction, and the creation of high-resolution bathymetric surfaces.
Bridging Training with Industry Insight
To complement technical training, the module incorporated interactive sessions with marine professionals. Luke O'Reilly, Operational Oceanographer with Green Rebel visited the Tom Crean and spoke about the growing offshore renewables sector and the crucial role of oceanographic data in supporting offshore wind energy projects. Luke’s insights gave students a real-world perspective on career pathways in Ireland’s expanding blue economy. A Q&A session with the INFOMAR team enabled students to discuss real-world applications of their skills. Speakers also offered insights into job prospects across marine and offshore sectors as well as the practical use of INFOMAR data in offshore renewable energy (ORE) site selection, underlining the critical role of seafloor data in shaping Ireland’s sustainable marine future.
Figure 3: Luke O'Reilly of Green Rebel pictured speaking to MSc. students on board the R.V. Tom Crean
Strengthening Ireland’s Ocean Economy
This module plays an increasingly important role in the context of Ireland’s growing ocean economy, which now supports approximately 85,000 jobs and contributes €4.94 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA), or 1.7% of GNI*. According to the Ireland’s Ocean Economy Report 2024, marine industries span sectors from shipping, aquaculture, and seafood processing to marine biotechnology, advanced marine technology, and renewable energy. By training students in the latest ocean mapping technologies and methodologies, this module equips graduates with vital competencies aligned with Ireland’s maritime ambitions. As the ocean economy continues to diversify—with over 3,000 companies now active across 13 marine-related industries—the need for highly skilled professionals in marine data science, geospatial analysis, and offshore surveying is critical. This course offers a pathway to those emerging opportunities, ensuring Ireland remains at the forefront of sustainable marine development and innovation.
Figure 4: Cover Image of Ireland’s Ocean Economy Update 2024 by SEMRU
INFOMAR’s Marine Module: Strong Feedback and Real-World Impact
Alumni consistently highlight the course’s value in preparing them for successful marine careers, thanks to its combination of academic theory, applied training, and professional exposure. As the module enters its seventh year in 2026, the INFOMAR team remains committed to shaping the next generation of marine scientists, data analysts, and offshore professionals. INFOMAR extends thanks to the staff and students of Maynooth University, the SMART Programme, Research Vessel operations at the Marine Institute and the crew of the R.V. Tom Crean for another year of impactful learning at sea.
INFOMAR (Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Ireland’s Marine Resource) is a 20-year programme funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), jointly managed by Geological Survey Ireland and the Marine Institute.
